Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi, the Dunklin R-5 School District encompasses the cities of Herculaneum and Pevely, as well as the unincorporated communities of Horine, and southern Barnhart. For over a century, Herculaneum High School has graduated seniors with a four-year degree. Today, we have about 120 students per grade that compete academically and physically in various classes and activities.
For the past few years, U.S. News and World Report has ranked Herculaneum High School as the best in Jefferson County, Missouri. Our academics are being enhanced by adding STEM curricula from Project Lead the Way (PLTW). In addition, we partner with Jefferson College, which allows a handful of our students to earn an associate's degree while attending high school. The opportunities offered in the Dunklin School District have helped alumni pursue their dreams in many disciplines. That's evidenced by members of our Blackcat Hall of Fame.
Our students learn life lessons on the field, court, and track daily. The developmental process of educating a whole child often involves testing one's limits and working to improve. Coaches can break down self-limiting barriers to success and encourage teamwork as they pursue a common goal. The trophy case in the high school gymnasium is a testament to our past triumphs and a reminder that today's students can also be victorious.
Our award-winning band, choir, drama, and art programs help build well-rounded students. These disciplines encourage the development of skills outside of traditional classwork. Moreover, some Blackcats find their career path by participating in the arts. Band Director Doug Smelzer has his own coaching tree of former students that hold similar positions at schools across the state.
We have four schools in our district. They are Taylor Early Childhood Center, Pevely Elementary School, Senn-Thomas Middle School, and Herculaneum High School. Each building has a page on our website and its own Facebook page.
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